根元

ねもと

base (of a plant, tree, pillar, etc.); (part near the) root; roots (of one's hair); root (e.g. of a problem)

Also written 根本、根もと

Meaning

n
base (of a plant, tree, pillar, etc.); (part near the) root; roots (of one's hair)
n
root (e.g. of a problem); source

Example sentences

多数決原理が民主主義の根本原則だ。

Majority rule is a basic principle of democracy.
想像力は、すべての文明の根本である。

Imagination is the root of all civilization.
挨拶は礼儀作法の根本である。

Greetings are the basis of good manners.